FAQs

Our initial consultation is usually over the phone, where we can go over the basics with each other. Our first counsel is usually "don't throw anything away!" because you would be surprised what has value and what doesn't. If desired, we come out to your place to view your site and belongings and discuss your needs. Then we work with you to formulate a plan that meets all your goals. Our first local consultation is free. We'll discuss needs and expectations and if you would like to go ahead, we will go over a contract that spells out everything. Communication is key.

Yes, we have moved sales in the past, but ideally they will be on-premises. As a rule of thumb, we have found the on-premises sale event, typically on a weekend, to be the most successful way to liquidate or down-size a household. We can include auction and on-line sales to supplement your event, if it makes sense to do so. We will help you to develop and implement the best plan for your situation.

We will need access to your sale location to set up and conduct your sale event. You will need to provide garbage service and have adequate homeowners insurance. Then you will need to remove all items which are not for sale to another location or "safe room" within the home.

Once you have hired us and we have access, we can typically set up for a sale in a 2-4 week time period from the day we have access and all items you don't want to sell are removed from the sale site. This can vary depending on your needs and the scope of the project.

We typically run all sale financials within a week after the sale. Checks for purchases are made out directly to the owner or the owner's estate and will be hand delivered within a day of the sale, if at all possible, so that you can process them right away. You will get the remainder of sale proceeds along with a spread sheet detailing receipts and expenses, within a week after sales are completed. The Wednesday after your sale is not uncommon.

We are paid a percentage of net proceeds. The percentage varies depending on the value of the estate. You are responsible for advertising costs and nominal expenses charged at cost for things like tags and tape, and the occasional repair to an item to get it sale-ready. We cover all staff costs.

By&By can do buy-outs, depending on your estate.

After a sale event, we do quite a nice job of tidying up and making it clear what is not sell-able and what goes to charity and what gets thrown. The remaining sell-able items may be brought to auction, sold on-line or disposed of according to your wishes.